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Topic starter
30/07/2026 10:47 pm
Just a note to let folks know I am back; albeit on a less frequent level for a few months. I was diagnosed with esophageal cancer last March and have gone through radiation and chemo in April/May. I underwent esophagectomy surgery July 9th and am pleased to report that "they got it all." The surgery is a major one and I am now home in recuperation mode for an estimated four months. I am extremely weak and sore as you could imagine so I will post when possible and hopefully be back to my bothersome level in a few months. My particular cancer location was discovered completely by fluke as I had a very minor gall bladder issue, so my outstandingly thorough GP very astutely ordered an endoscopy (camera down the throat to check around) whereupon the doctor found the cancer at the junction of the esophagus and the stomach. The surgeon told me that this particular cancer is a very aggressive one and that if mine hadn't been found I would have been terminal in 6 to 9 months. He added that most people who get this cancer don't survive it, simply because the symptoms don't show until it's too late. Obviously I feel very blessed and overwhelmed that I made it through. My eternal gratitude goes out to my GP, the surgical team, my amazing wife and of course God.
Sorry to go on about this but I thought it was worthy in that an endoscopy might be something for members to consider having done. Yes it would cost a couple hundred bucks but might save your life!
Lastly I apologize for not revealing this issue months ago but I much prefer the post op celebration of success over months of pre-op concern. I trust you understand.
Thanks folks!
30/07/2026 10:53 pm
Glad things went well and hope you heal quickly. Welcome back!
30/07/2026 10:55 pm
Thanks to God they got it all Jack. Happy trails to you, I’ll have you and yours in my prayers
30/07/2026 11:05 pm
Glad the problem was found in time and the surgery was successful. I hope your recovery is as fast as possible.
Ed Davis
Inverness, Illinois, USA
30/07/2026 11:27 pm
Jack, you’ll always be in my daily prayers and i’m glad to hear that you are doing well. Thank-you for letting us know.
steve 🙏
30/07/2026 11:56 pm
Great news Jack! Prayers for a quick recovery and thank you for the endoscopy tip. Understand and agree 100% with your disclosure timing philosophy.
31/07/2026 12:01 am
very similar to my cancer experience Jack, right down to the diligent GP who ordered a needle biopsy to be done the next day while I'm there with him presenting with a lump in the neck. We've estimated over the last 14 years I've had over 40 endoscopies. When you are able, have a talk to the oncologists about an exercise program with a hospital exercise physiologist. Here in Australia we have a specialist university program that examines the relationship between exercise and cancer recovery. Survival rates are improved 32-47% because of exercise. If you get time and feel inclined here is their link: https://www.ecu.edu.au/newsroom/articles/research/a-single-bout-of-exercise-gives-results
All the best Jack, just take it one day at time, you'll be fine.
Geoff
31/07/2026 3:53 am
I'm glad you're back, Jack. We have missed you. You remain in my thoughts and prayers, my friend.
John Kuvakas
Warrenton, VA
31/07/2026 4:30 am
Jack; Glad to hear that they got it all and things worked out. All the best for a speedy recovery.
31/07/2026 5:11 am
I'm very happy for you Jack; that's a great story! My very best to you and your family as you continue on this road of recovery.
31/07/2026 5:37 am
Prayers for the next several months for a full and complete recovery and return to good health. God bless you and your family and wonderful team of doctors. Again, we had such similar life changes; this time discovering cancer. I went in to the ER for kidney stone pain and in looking for it found Adrenocortical carcinoma.
Your usual jovial and informative presence has been very much missed and we'll take whatever time you're able to provide until fully up to strength again. God Bless my friend!!
31/07/2026 5:37 am
Jack, I'm so happy for you...thoughts and prayers going your way.
John Bono
North Jersey
31/07/2026 8:30 am
I have had you on my mind for the last two weeks wondering why we hadn't heard from you. You are truly one of the building blocks to this forum and one I have missed. I'm humbled to learn the reason for your absence and thrilled regarding the outcome. Prayers to you and your family during the healing process and we look forward to hearing from you as you see fit. Wonderful to hear your feelings about your doctor and his thorough diagnosis which brought a successful conclusion. Bless you my friend.
31/07/2026 8:46 am
Prayers in the air Jack, my prostate cancer was found extremely early thanks to my doctor. With Gods healing and the amazing doctors at the Cleveland Clinic I didn't have to go through chemo/radiation. That was a blessing. Hang tough my friend.🙏
31/07/2026 10:24 am
Get better fast, Jack ! You have a whole lot of people here rooting for you during this time of recovery.
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